What Happened This Year 2011
People Who Died in 2011
Oliver Napier
A prominent lawyer and politician from Northern Ireland, influential in the political landscape during the late 20th century. Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights and engaged in various political efforts aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation during a turbulent period in the region. Represented the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland, contributing to discussions and negotiations surrounding the Northern Ireland conflict. Served in various capacities within the party and held an influential editorial role in local media.
Continue ReadingSamuel Wanjiru
A marathon runner achieved notable success in distance running. Secured a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, marking a significant achievement in Olympic history. Established multiple course records, including victories in prestigious marathons such as the London Marathon and the Chicago Marathon. Demonstrated exceptional speed and talent, breaking the then world record in the marathon distance.
Continue ReadingCesária Évora
Born in the Cape Verde archipelago, Évora achieved international acclaim as a singer of morna, a traditional genre combining African and Portuguese influences. Her powerful voice and emotive performances captured the essence of Cape Verde's cultural heritage. Évora rose to prominence in the 1990s, particularly after the release of the album 'Mar Azul' in 1991. Subsequent albums, 'Café Atlantico' and 'Voz d'Amor', further solidified her reputation worldwide. Évora often performed barefoot, reflecting her connection to her roots and her humility. She toured extensively, enchanting audiences in Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Continue ReadingMarv Tarplin
A prominent guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the Motown sound. Joined The Miracles in the early 1960s and played a vital role in shaping their musical style. Wrote and performed on hit songs that defined the era, collaborating closely with Smokey Robinson. His work with The Miracles led to a series of successful albums and singles, impacting the musical landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingJohn Mackey
Played in the National Football League as a tight end. Started career with the Baltimore Colts and later played for the New York Jets. Renowned for contributions to the game, particularly in the position of tight end. Key player in the Baltimore Colts' victory in Super Bowl V. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, recognizing a successful career and influence on the sport.
Continue ReadingNorman Foster Ramsey Jr.
Contributions to the field of physics included work on atomic beams and maser technology. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing generations of physicists. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1989 for contributions to the development of methods to use atomic fields to measure frequency, which became essential in atomic clocks.
Continue ReadingJ. Ernest Wilkins Jr.
Born in 1923, contributed to the Manhattan Project during World War II. Earning a PhD in nuclear engineering, focused research on reactor design and radiation shielding in the 1950s. Served as an educator at several esteemed institutions, emphasizing the importance of mathematical applications in engineering. Actively involved in promoting science and technology, particularly among underrepresented groups in the field. Received recognition for efforts in nuclear safety and mathematical modeling.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lipscomb
Contributions included significant work in the fields of chemistry and molecular structure, especially in the area of boranes, a class of compounds containing boron and hydrogen. While at Harvard University, served as a professor and conducted extensive research that led to a deeper understanding of these compounds. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1976 for work on the structure and bonding of boron compounds. Authored numerous articles and participated in various academic collaborations throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingNguyễn Cao Kỳ
Born in September 1930, a military general and politician in Vietnam. Served as the 16th Prime Minister of the Republic of Vietnam from 1967 to 1971. Held significant influence during the Vietnam War as a prominent figure in the South Vietnamese government. After the fall of Saigon in 1975, lived in exile for several decades before returning to Vietnam in the early 1990s.
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